Former Browns insider claims Kevin Stefanski won't be fired but will “mutually agree to part ways” with Cleveland

Kevin Stefanski and the Cleveland Browns have given Browns fans the gamut. In some years, the coach has given playoff runs. In others, it has been more than disappointing. With another season winding down, rumors are spinning up again that the head coach will exit stage left.

This time, a former Browns insider has predicted in a Wednesday post on X that a split could be in the cards. Former Browns insider Brad Stainbrook outlined expectations that this would be "Stefanski's last game."

"Not covering the #Browns on a daily basis anymore definitely feels different," he posted. "Good, but different. Been watching things unfold from afar. My guess? This is Kevin Stefanski’s last game as Browns HC, who won’t be fired, but 'mutually agreed to part ways,' or something like that."

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Of course, as a former insider speaking away from that role, his comments are from the outside looking in. However, as a result of dealing with so much private information, many insiders are unaware of what unique information they know.

This can cause them to reach a conclusion based on observations that others may not have seen. That isn't to say this is the case, but it certainly doesn't decrease the chances that something could happen to Stefanski.

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Exploring potential Kevin Stefanski replacements

Stefanski at Buffalo Bills v Cleveland Browns - NFL 2025 - Source: Getty

If the Cleveland Browns move on from Kevin Stefanski, the team will be behind the many franchises that have been searching for weeks and months. However, with no one signed, there are plenty of options.

Mike McCarthy is wrapping up his first season without a coaching gig. Last time that he switched teams (from the Green Bay Packers to the Dallas Cowboys), it came after a year off. McCarthy might be the best option on the market who has spent a large portion of his career in the Midwest.

However, if Cleveland wants to go with an up-and-coming coordinator, the team could do worse than Klint Kubiak. The son of Gary Kubiak has the perfect teacher to give him a chance and is coming off an explosive regular season with the Seattle Seahawks.

Todd Monken could also make sense as a veteran in the AFC North. He has already spent a season with Cleveland (2019), so the ties are there. Monken has head coaching experience in college as well, so he wouldn't be a rookie in the traditional sense.

Edited by Ian Van Roy